Medal for the General
Medal for the General

Movie spotlight

Medal for the General

1944
Movie
100 min
English

A retired general helps out by sheltering some evacuees during WWII.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Irving PichelGenres: Drama, War

Plot Summary

During World War II, a distinguished but aging Austrian general is forced to confront his conscience when he's ordered to sign a death warrant for a resistance fighter he knows is innocent. Torn between duty and morality, he grapples with the horrifying implications of his decision and the potential consequences for his own life and legacy.

Critical Reception

The film received a mixed to negative reception, largely overlooked by critics and audiences at the time of its release. Its earnest anti-war message was somewhat overshadowed by its melodramatic execution and dated pacing, though some praised its intentions.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its anti-war sentiment and exploration of moral dilemmas.

  • Criticized for its slow pacing and overly theatrical performances.

  • Considered a well-intentioned but ultimately flawed drama.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this historical film, but general sentiment suggests appreciation for its thematic exploration of wartime morality, though some found the execution to be less compelling than its subject matter.

Fun Fact

The film was an adaptation of the play 'The First Legion' by Emmet Lavery, though its themes and setting were significantly altered for the wartime context.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Godfrey Tearle is really quite good in this rather poignant story of "Gen. Church". An highly decorated WWI veteran, he tries to enlist for duty as WWII looms, but finds himself unwanted. He struggles to deal with this rejection; lets himse...